414TATA Posted June 6, 2021 Share Posted June 6, 2021 Just asking to get an idea of a reasonable cost to replace the rear main seal. 1941 Buick 248 CI Straight eight. Pretty sure that's my leak. Still have to get it on a rack and check it out for certain. My understanding is it's a rope seal. I'd be surprised if it's ever been replaced. Just turned 37K original miles today on a 20 mile run. 🙂 Car was built in October of 1940 for the '41 model year so the seal is almost 81 years old. I won't be doing the job. About the only thing I'm good at with this old Buick is driving it. and maybe not so much on that either.😊 I'm told the replacement seal can be Neoprene or rope type ,both of which Bob's Automobilia carries. I'm thinking go with the Neoprene. Just curious what you guys think is about the right cost for the job. Either part is under $50.00. Oh.. and unfortunately I'm in California just to help with a guestimate. ( probably take the low end cost wise and double it. 😖) Wayne Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ben Bruce aka First Born Posted June 7, 2021 Share Posted June 7, 2021 Wayne, how bad is the leak? Just a nuisance? Adding oil every trip? I am going to say the rope one will be at least 4-5 hours. The pan has to be dropped. It can then be replaced if one knows how. May just be me, but unless you are going to drive it a LOT, or it is in danger of messing up the clutch, I would punt! Ben 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
414TATA Posted June 7, 2021 Author Share Posted June 7, 2021 Hey Ben Thanks for the input. In my opinion It's more of a nuisance. Leaving a puddle on the cardboard or plastic sheet I keep under the car in the garage. it's about 3 or 4" by about 8 to 10" after coming in from a 20 mile run. It lost a quart of oil in the last about 550 miles . which doesn't really seem that bad to me. Is it? I mean I know that's not a good thing . I'm driving this Buick at least once a week about 20 or 22 miles each outing. I guess I'm a cheapo but I have to say I like what you're saying better than the repair shops $1,400 estimate. (was him guessing the rear main as it was not up on the rack) Lol Thanks so much. I always enjoy your post and responses here.😊 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ben Bruce aka First Born Posted June 7, 2021 Share Posted June 7, 2021 $1400.00 sounds high. I do know I just removed the pan, working from a creeper, and replaced it after doing a job in about 5 hours. IF it is the rear main, I believe I could do it in that time. Pull the flywheel cover and check. The engine side of the flywheel will be oily if the seal is leaking. Ben 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now